Macdonald Hotels backing young golfers
June 23, 2010

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts have pledged to encourage budding young sporting enthusiasts to take up the game of golf over the next five years and beyond.

In an unprecedented move by a hotel group, Macdonald Hotels have committed to helping young amateurs to take up the game across their portfolio of over 40 properties in the UK.

The pledge will be supported across all the group's golfing properties, with each capitalising on its individual facilities, coaches and specialist training for junior golfers to increase the number of players under 16 in the UK.

Sandy Lyle MBE (pictured below), twice a major champion and three time European Order of Merit winner, is today Macdonald Hotels' golf ambassador and supports the scheme saying: "As well as providing some of the best courses and facilities in the country, Macdonald Hotels take their golf very seriously and should be applauded for the work they are doing in supporting young people and nurturing talent".

The announcement comes following the launch of the Lee Westwood Golf School at the Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa in Cheshire . The first BTEC Diploma in Sport accredited by a professional sports personality, it is supported and endorsed by the English Golf Union and the Golf Foundation.

In addition to today's announcement, both the Macdonald Portal Hotel and Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel Golf & Spa will launch a free membership to under 16s, including beginner lessons over a six week period, as well as partner with local high schools to offer regular open afternoons. Macdonald Portal Hotel will also host a three day Lee Westwood Academy in July which is free of charge to participate.